Cowboy Roundup: Dallas should adopt a new offensive identity and employ the franchise tag
Cowboy Roundup: Dallas Should Adopt a New Offensive Identity and Employ the Franchise Tag
As the Dallas Cowboys head into the next chapter of their storied franchise, there are several critical decisions that could shape the future of the team. Despite consistently making the playoffs and remaining competitive within the NFC East, the Cowboys’ inability to break through into the Super Bowl conversation in recent years has left fans and analysts alike questioning the team’s direction. While much of the blame has been placed on the team’s offensive schemes and the inability to consistently generate big plays, there are two major areas of focus that the Cowboys should turn their attention to in the coming months: developing a new offensive identity and strategically employing the franchise tag.
In this article, we will explore why Dallas should reimagine their offensive identity to better compete in the modern NFL and why they should consider using the franchise tag to ensure they retain key players for future seasons.
The Case for a New Offensive Identity
The Dallas Cowboys have a long tradition of offensive excellence. From the high-flying offenses of the 1990s to the more run-heavy philosophies employed in recent years, Dallas has been home to some of the most iconic offensive units in NFL history. However, as the league evolves, so too must the offensive systems that lead to success. While the Cowboys have been consistently competitive, they’ve found themselves coming up short in high-stakes playoff games, often struggling to adapt to the changing dynamics of the modern NFL.
Over the last few seasons, the Cowboys have leaned heavily on a more traditional offensive identity, one that revolves around running the ball with star running back Ezekiel Elliott and establishing a physical presence at the line of scrimmage. However, as the NFL has evolved, it’s become clear that relying solely on a power-running game isn’t enough to win championships in today’s pass-heavy league. The best offenses in the NFL today are those that can balance the run with an aggressive and dynamic passing attack, one that can stretch the field and force opposing defenses to respect both the run and the pass.
The Cowboys have pieces in place to build a more modern offense, but their offensive identity needs to shift to maximize the potential of their roster. The first step in this evolution is establishing a more diverse, unpredictable, and pass-oriented attack.
1. Moving Away from a Predictable Run-First Approach
Ezekiel Elliott has been the centerpiece of the Cowboys’ offense since his arrival in 2016. The team’s ability to run the football has often been a key strength, especially when the offensive line was at full strength, and Elliott was in peak form. However, as the NFL has become more pass-heavy and focused on scoring quickly, the Cowboys’ reliance on the run game has been less effective in the postseason, where matchups often expose a lack of balance on offense.
To build a more dynamic offense, the Cowboys should focus on complementing their ground game with a passing attack that can challenge defenses from every level. While Elliott’s vision and power as a running back remain valuable assets, it’s clear that the team needs to diversify its offensive approach. Instead of being locked into a predictable run-first scheme, Dallas should lean into the passing game as the focal point, with the run game acting as a counterbalance to keep defenses honest.
2. Empowering Dak Prescott with More Freedom and Flexibility
A key aspect of adopting a new offensive identity is empowering quarterback Dak Prescott to make more plays in the passing game. Prescott has shown the ability to be one of the league’s top quarterbacks when given the freedom to operate and make quick decisions. His strong arm, mobility, and leadership qualities are among the best in the NFL, but he has at times been hampered by a conservative offensive scheme that doesn’t always take advantage of his skills.
The Cowboys have the potential to be an explosive offense when Prescott is given the opportunity to showcase his arm strength and ability to read defenses. One way to unlock Prescott’s full potential is by implementing a more up-tempo, pass-first attack, which could help to open up lanes for both the run game and Prescott’s ability to distribute the ball to an array of talented receiving options.
With the likes of CeeDee Lamb, Michael Gallup, and potentially new additions in the future, the Cowboys have the necessary receiving weapons to stretch the field and force opposing defenses to defend every inch of the gridiron. Utilizing more spread concepts, quick passes, and deep-ball opportunities could diversify the offense and make it more dangerous.
3. Modernizing the Offensive Line
Another area where the Cowboys must adapt is their offensive line. For years, the Cowboys have been known for having one of the most dominant offensive lines in the NFL, creating huge lanes for Elliott and protecting Prescott. However, the line has shown signs of aging and inconsistency in recent years, and the once-dominant unit has been unable to maintain the same level of dominance. The Cowboys need to address the offensive line’s shortcomings and ensure that they are not relying too heavily on the running game to protect the quarterback.
To build a more dynamic offense, the Cowboys should consider incorporating more pass-protection schemes designed to give Prescott more time in the pocket. This might mean focusing on adding athletic, versatile offensive linemen who can excel in pass-blocking situations. Upgrading the offensive line will allow Prescott to operate more efficiently, giving him the necessary time and space to execute his new, more pass-oriented system.
The Need for the Franchise Tag
In addition to revamping their offensive identity, the Dallas Cowboys should also consider utilizing the franchise tag to retain key players who may be on the verge of free agency. The franchise tag is a valuable tool that allows teams to retain the rights to their most important players without committing to a long-term deal immediately. For the Cowboys, there are a few players who are integral to the future success of the team and who could benefit from being tagged for one more season.
1. Retaining Key Players for Immediate Impact
The most obvious candidate for the franchise tag is star running back Tony Pollard, who has emerged as one of the most explosive players on the roster. Pollard has become an essential part of the Cowboys’ offense, particularly as a change-of-pace back who can provide both rushing and receiving production. While Pollard has been overshadowed by Elliott at times, his versatility and explosive playmaking ability make him a key piece for the Cowboys moving forward.
By tagging Pollard, the Cowboys would ensure that they don’t lose one of their most dynamic offensive weapons while also giving them more time to negotiate a long-term deal. This would allow the team to keep Pollard in the fold for another season while also focusing on building the offense around a more pass-oriented system.
2. Securing Defensive Assets for the Future
Another player who could be a candidate for the franchise tag is defensive end Dalton Schultz. Schultz has been a reliable target for Prescott in the passing game, and while he may not be as dynamic as some other tight ends in the league, he has a strong ability to create mismatches with his size and route-running ability. By franchising Schultz, the Cowboys can continue to utilize his skill set while also exploring long-term contract options in the future.
3. Avoiding Unnecessary Roster Losses
While the Cowboys have many talented players, they are also operating in a competitive NFC East where every roster move can have a significant impact on their success. By using the franchise tag strategically, they can avoid losing key contributors and keep the team in a position to contend for the playoffs year in and year out. It also gives the front office time to figure out which players to prioritize for long-term contracts and which players to let go.
